Philly cheesesteak pasta casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the beloved flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with creamy pasta. Imagine cheesy goodness bubbling away in your oven, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that makes you forget all your worries and your last diet attempt.
This dish is perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers when you want something hearty that will keep everyone asking for seconds. With each bite, you’ll experience the delightful textures of tender pasta, savory steak, and melty cheese—an explosion of flavor that might just make you do a happy dance in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Philly cheesesteak pasta casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite
- The rich flavors and creamy texture create an irresistible dish that’s visually appealing when served hot
- Enjoy it as a main course or even as a side to elevate any meal
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to both meat lovers and vegetarians by substituting ingredients
Ingredients for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: Use your favorite type, like penne or rotini; they hold sauce beautifully and add great texture.
Thinly Sliced Steak: Ribeye or sirloin works best; look for well-marbled cuts for maximum flavor.
Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green adds color and sweetness; chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Onion: Sweet onions caramelize beautifully; slice them thinly for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic delight!
Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess; let it soften before mixing to avoid lumps.
Shredded Cheese: Provolone or mozzarella melts perfectly; blend both for extra cheesiness.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over salt levels in the dish.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning bring everything together beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large baking dish and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you work on the filling.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Toss in the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté until they’re soft and slightly caramelized—about five minutes. Add the minced garlic during the last minute so it doesn’t burn.
Step 4: Prepare the Steak
Add the thinly sliced steak into the skillet with vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned but not fully cooked through—about three minutes will do!
Step 5: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sautéed veggies with steak, cream cheese, beef broth, and half of your shredded cheese. Mix well until everything is coated in creamy goodness.
Step 6: Bake
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top with remaining shredded cheese and bake uncovered for about twenty-five minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra beef broth if desired for that final touch of flavor! Enjoy this hearty meal with friends or family—it’s sure to be a hit!
Now grab your fork because this Philly cheesesteak pasta casserole isn’t going to eat itself!
You Must Know
- This Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole combines savory flavors and comforting textures, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners
- It’s easy to whip up and can be customized based on your pantry staples, ensuring a delicious meal every time
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the beef for that juicy flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy cheese sauce. Assemble everything in a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. Efficiency is key to this amazing comfort dish!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the beef for chicken or turkey if you’re looking for lighter options. You can also mix in different veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or add extra spices for a kick. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for a quick fix without losing that cheesy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your pasta is al dente before baking; it will absorb some moisture during cooking
- Use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor—cheddar and provolone work wonders together
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to set beautifully
Cooking this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole transports me back to my college days when friends would gather for study sessions—and by study, I mean feasting! Their oohs and ahhs were all the validation I needed.
FAQs :
What is Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole?
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole is a hearty dish that combines the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich with pasta. It typically includes cooked pasta, sliced beef, bell peppers, onions, and creamy cheese sauce all baked together for a comforting meal. This casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, offering a delicious twist on traditional comfort food.
How do you make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole?
To make Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole, start by cooking your pasta according to package instructions. In a skillet, sauté sliced steak, onions, and bell peppers until tender. Combine these ingredients with the cooked pasta and a creamy cheese sauce in a baking dish. Top with additional cheese and bake until bubbly and golden. This simple process yields a flavorful and satisfying meal everyone will love.
Can I customize my Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole?
Absolutely! You can customize your Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole by adding different vegetables like mushrooms or substituting chicken for beef. Additionally, use various cheeses such as provolone or mozzarella to enhance flavor. Experimenting with spices or adding hot sauce can also give your casserole a unique twist that suits your taste preferences.
How long does it take to cook Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole?
Cooking Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole generally takes about 30 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to bake. Prepping the ingredients beforehand can speed up the process. Once baked until bubbly and golden, let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is not only quick to make but also perfect for meal prep.
Conclusion for Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole :
In summary, Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole offers a delightful combination of flavors that brings a beloved sandwich into a hearty casserole form. With easy preparation and customizable options, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The comforting mix of pasta, beef, and cheese ensures that everyone will enjoy it. Try this recipe today for an unforgettable meal!
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Casserole combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with creamy pasta, making it an irresistible comfort dish. This hearty casserole features tender pasta, savory ribeye steak, colorful bell peppers, and gooey melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare and customizable to fit your taste preferences, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers (mixed red and green), chopped
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the penne in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, sauté onion and bell peppers in olive oil until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the sliced steak, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; cook until browned but not fully cooked.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with sautéed vegetables, steak, cream cheese, beef broth, and half of the shredded cheese until well combined.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
